Eumundi may be a small, rural town with a large, vibrant personality. Located 15km inland from Noosa Heads in the picturesque rolling hinterland, Eumundi is characterised by history, art, nature, and delicious fresh, local produce. Historical buildings and fascinating museums meet modern art galleries and quirky boutiques, forming a charming blend of old meets new. Here are five coolest things to see and do when you’re in Eumundi.
1. Eumundi Markets
Eumundi is best known for its infamous craft market that attracts hundreds of locals and thousands of visitors every Wednesday and Saturday. The markets showcase the incredible work of talented local creatives, with a policy that all items must have been made, grown, or designed by the seller. People flock from all over the Sunshine Coast and even further afield to shop for locally made artisan treasures, including clothing, jewellery, furniture, homeware, artwork, and ceramics.
You’ll be spoilt for choice by the mouthwatering range of fresh produce available from local farmers, bakers, and chefs. Treat yourself to a tasty breakfast or lunch, and buy some top-quality ingredients to take home. When you need a break from shopping, you can indulge in a relaxing massage, have your palm read, and be dazzled by the line up of amazing local musicians and street performers.
2. Eumundi Brewery
Whilst most Queenslanders are at least familiar with the Eumundi Markets, the town’s other attractions are less well-known but equally worthwhile. The Imperial Hotel has been a local icon since 1911, and in 2017 it also became the home of the Eumundi Brewery. The original Eumundi lager brand was crafted in Eumundi back in 1988 and has been revived with various delicious Eumundi beer options now available, all created with the Queensland climate in mind.
Book your Eumundi Brewery Tour and Taste to explore the brewery, learn about the beer making process and the history of Eumundi brewing, and enjoy a taste of one of the beers. You can also purchase beers to take home, as well as a range of merchandise, and sip beers onsite in the Imperial Hotel and beer garden whilst you listen to live music from some of the most talented musicians in the area.
3. Artisans Gallery
The Artisans Gallery is unique and well worth a visit. It is the exclusive showroom of David Suters Timbercraftman, showcasing an intriguing range of handcrafted timberworks inspired by the natural beauty of solid timber, as well as a range of other mediums, including ceramics, stone, glass, metal, photography, and fine arts.
The work of David Suters is accompanied by the exquisite work of multiple selected local artisans, both emerging and established, as well as special guest exhibitors from across the country. There is always something new and exciting to see at the Artisans Gallery, from timberwork to pottery, sculptures, textiles, and more.
Artisans Gallery is also home to Red Desert Gallery, which is one of Australia’s premier Aboriginal fine art dealers.
4. Discover Eumundi Heritage & Visitor Centre
Delve into the intriguing history of Eumundi at the Discover Eumundi Heritage & Visitor Centre. The heritage collection includes objects, photographs, and documents from Eumundi and the surrounding district, depicting the area’s natural and social history. They also showcase contemporary displays, such as their fascinating local insect collection. There is plenty to see and read, and much to learn about this fascinating rural town.
The centre is also home to Wan’din’in Arts Space, a multi-use area for heritage and arts-related exhibitions, workshops, and meetings. In addition, the centre provides visitor information, making it perfect for your first stop on arrival in Eumundi. Furthermore, they provide assistance with family history research for those who are interested in tracing their family tree.
5. Eumundi Square
A visit to Eumundi isn’t complete until you’ve experienced the unique shopping experience provided by Eumundi Square, described as a ‘micro business incubator’. 90 stallholders have a permanent set up there, selling a diverse array of merchandise including clothes, jewellery, accessories, homewares, art, organic products, eco products, health and beauty products, and more. A large portion of the items available are created by local artists and designers.
Eumundi Square is open on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Every Friday from 8:30 am-12 pm, the square hosts the Friday Country Fair, featuring live entertainment, food and drink, and even a petting zoo, in addition to the 90 speciality stalls. Come along to revel in the country fair atmosphere, taste some delicious local produce, and purchase some one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts.
To learn more about Eumundi Markets’s history, read more here.
